How does the verb encroach differ from other similar words?
Some common synonyms of encroach are infringe, invade, and trespass. While all these words mean "to make inroads upon the property, territory, or rights of another," encroach suggests gradual or stealthy entrance upon another's territory or usurpation of another's rights or possessions.
the encroaching settlers displacing the native peoples
Where would infringe be a reasonable alternative to encroach?
The words infringe and encroach are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, infringe implies an encroachment clearly violating a right or prerogative.
infringing a copyright
When can invade be used instead of encroach?
The words invade and encroach can be used in similar contexts, but invade implies a hostile and injurious entry into the territory or sphere of another.
accused of invading their privacy
When could trespass be used to replace encroach?
While the synonyms trespass and encroach are close in meaning, trespass implies an unwarranted or unlawful intrusion.
hunters trespassing on farmland
Example Sentences
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Recent Examples of encroachThe gangs are quickly encroaching into strategic neighborhoods where key telecom and electricity installations are at risk of a takeover.—Jacqueline Charles, Miami Herald, 25 Apr. 2025 Telecommunications leaders have acknowledged that their cable partners are increasingly encroaching on their territory, but none express concern.—Russell Leung,lillian Rizzo, CNBC, 23 Apr. 2025 Mayor Steven Meiner described the film as being antisemitic, but ultimately backed down from his threats after hundreds of documentarians (including this writer) signed an open letter condemning him for encroaching on the free speech rights.—Adam Benzine, HollywoodReporter, 27 Mar. 2025 The thumbnail description: Imagine Robert De Niro’s Jimmy the Gent character from Goodfellas but as a ruthless Hawaiian crime boss, also based on a real figure, who battled encroaching rivals for control of organized crime on the islands.—Mike Fleming Jr, Deadline, 27 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for encroach
This metabolically active fat accumulates around the waist, surrounding and invading the heart, liver, and pancreas.
—
Larry Olmsted,
Forbes.com,
16 May 2025
Georgetown Law School Professor David Super also questioned the amount of deference that Haines gave the administration, including on the questions of whether Tren de Aragua is invading the U.S. and whether the Venezuelan government is responsible.
However, a new poll shows his approval rating among this demographic may be creeping up again.
—
Martha McHardy,
MSNBC Newsweek,
15 May 2025
Listen to this article A 32-year-old woman got the scare of her life when a stranger crept up behind her and tried to shoot her in the back of the head in a random execution attempt on a Bronx street, video obtained by the Daily News shows.
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